Abstract:
Given the pervasiveness of heterosexism in society, gay men are at a significant risk for internalizing heterosexist beliefs and developing psychological distress. The author of the present study examined the impact of internalized heterosexism on self-esteem and depression. Participants (56 self-identified gay men) completed the Nungesser Homosexuality Attitudes Inventory-Revised, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and the Bums Depression Scale. Considering past research findings, the author hypothesized that internalized heterosexism would be negatively correlated with self-esteem and positively correlated with depression. Results of statistical analyses supported the hypotheses, revealing a significant positive correlation between depression and internalized heterosexism, and a significant negative correlation between internalized heterosexism and self-esteem. The study was limited by its small sample size and lack of diversity among participants, but helped illustrate the impact of internalized heterosexism on psychological distress.
